Councillor John Reilly, Executive Member for Environment and Operations, said: "While all tattooing businesses must register with the local authority, to have this new scheme in place provides greater information and protection for local people.

"While voluntary, the scheme will indicate the standard of hygiene that each of the registered businesses have achieved, from one (low) to four (very good).

"In addition, we are confident it will also help improve hygiene standards and reduce the risk of infections and infectious disease transmission, as tattooists strive to achieve the highest standards.”

The council is also concerned to identify and close down illegal tattooists - 'scratchers' - that pose a serious health risk to the public.

It is seeking the public's help in identifying these unregistered tattooists, who use cheap tattooing kits bought online and advertise their work via social media.

Often working from home, garden sheds or even doing home visits, their prices are often lower than registered tattooists, but the health risks people face if they choose to use an illegal tattooist are significant.

Any tattooing businesses wanting to find out more about the new hygiene scheme or to register their business should visit trafford.gov.uk.